That's a really helpful, meticulous analysis. You call attention to important details like extension, jump consistency, interpretive style, and competitive history. I fear you're right about Ashley, though for the sake of American skating, I sure hope you're wrong. I don't see anyone of strength and authority in the American lineup this year...unless Sasha shows up and stays calm. I know that's an unrealistic hope. But when I go onto YouTube and watch Sasha skate at any age, I see a refinement and strength that no one else in the States has, except Alissa when she can stay on her feet.

I do hope Rochette tries her triple-triple here, as you suggest. Of all the women except for Leonova, the stakes are lowest for her here, because she doesn't have to worry that Canada will send someone else instead of her to the Olympics if she doesn't do well. She's easily her country's flagship skater, as Leonova is currently for Russia. So she should take this opportunity to try the jump combo out in competition.

To me, Ando often looks like a deer in the headlights. Whenever I watch her, except for the year she won Worlds, I hear the announcer saying that she's having an off night. So whenever she's doing this fabulous work she's known for, it's rarely while I'm watching. I like her and hope for the best, but there's a fragility about her that always unsettles me. Maybe, as you point out, it's the pressure she's under when she's the Great Hope of Japan.

I love Suzuki: what charm and vivacity! The same is true for Leonova, for many of the same reasons. But for quality and elevated interpretation, my vote's with Kim all the way in this group.

I enjoyed reading your analysis, you write very well for a 16-year-old.

Based on the way skaters in the other disciplines seem to be withdrawing from the GPF left, right and centre, do you think any of the current finalists will withdraw?

Thank you. No, I don't think anyone will be withdrawing unless if a true "injury" is to take place. It's an ideal competition for everyone involved. For Kim, she has an opportunity to get her confidence back prior to the Olympics and doesn't have to compete at her country's national championship, so she will have ample time to rest. For Ando and Suzuki, there's an Olympic ticket that could be earned. Leonova has a great opportunity to challenge for a European title and this competition should help her in that endeavor, and Wagner will want to take advantage of being the lone American representative in this field. It's also a nice opportunity for Rochette to try that 3/3.